A Long Time Coming

Sorry it's been so long since i did a post.  I haven't had a day off in like 2 weeks and it's been hard to find the time to write for all of you.  But now the good news is that i have quite a bit of new music to share with you.  So let's get right to it shall we?  The first group I have to share with you is Frightened Rabbit.  They are quintet from Scotland who have recently begun to nudge their way into the public eye.  They are an unconventional band with a folky pop feel.  They have a knack for singing songs about ordinary people or situations, but using their upbeat and epic sound to bring out a feeling of greatness and making those people or situations feel extraordinary and significant.  The band themselves also feel as though they are ordinary guys.  The lead singer Scott's voice cracks and may not be exactly on pitch at times, but it gives them authenticity and really works with their sound.  It makes them sound genuine.  Take a listen to these tracks and enjoy.

Frightened Rabbit - The Twist


Frightened Rabbit - Swim Until You Can't See Land


Frightened Rabbit - Living In Colour


The Next group I have for you is The Morning Benders.  I featured them in one of my previous posts as a band you have to hear.  I am including them here because they have a brand new album out today (3/9) called Big Echo.  It is there second studio LP and brings about some definite changes in there sound.  The sound on previous records has been more fast paced alt rock based.  They have been in your face and featured driving drum beats.  On this new record however, they have taken a different route, aiming more for the Phil Specter "wall of sound."  They sound more distant and grand in the mixes.  The instrumentation has improved and expanded as well.  The songs on Big Echo are more like composed pieces of music than just a four piece band playing some songs.  It shows major growth in the way they write and understand music.  I have been incredibly excited to hear this new record and it has lived up to all my expectations of being creative, different, and just plain good.  Now I just can't wait to see what they do next.  Here are a few tracks for your listening pleasure.

The Morning Benders - Excuses


The Morning Benders - Cold War (Nice Clean Fight)


The Morning Benders - All Day Day Light


The third artist on my list is Andrew Belle.  It's is not a common occurance to come across an artist with the ability to catch my full attention with just a 30 second clip, but that happened when I listened to the title track off Andrew's latest album "The Ladder" for the first time.  Andrew is a singer /songwriter out of Chicago.  His voice is incredibly unique.  It is deep and soothing and kind, and it drew me in immediately.  His music is beautiful and well written with flowing and catchy melodies.  His lyrics are personal and easy to relate to.  Everything about Andrew Belle just fits and feels right while you are listening.  If you like artists like Coldplay, The Fray, or Peter Bradley Adams (featured on a previous blog) then you will like Andrew Belle.

Andrew Belle - The Ladder


Andrew Belle - Static Waves


Andrew Belle - My Oldest Friend


Next we have a band called This World Fair.  It is the brainchild of Chris Kalgren who hails from Minneapolis.  Unlike the rest of the artists this is not a new release but the music is new to me (and hopefully you too).  I heard about This World Fair a while back but never really got around to actually checking them out until last week and I am definitely glad I did.  Chris write fantastic guitar driven pop/rock songs that have that epic feel like they are in a huge room shouting at the top of their lungs to make the rafters shake.  They are powerful and uplifting.  The sound reminds me of Tonic or Coldplay or even Wings at times.  The songs are very well crafted and catchy and the lyrics, which are inspired by past experiences are personal and emotional.  To sum up, This World Fair is music at it's best.  You will want to be blasting them on your radio as soon as possible.  I have included a couple songs off their latest EP as well my favorite off their debut self-titled album.  Hope you like them.

This World Fair - White Flag


This World Fair - Brother Run


This World Fair - This Morning


Last but not least I have my artist you have to hear for this week.  Brother Ali is probably one of the most talented Rap artists I have ever heard.  Also hailing from Minneapolis, Brother Ali is part of the Rhymesayers crew.  He is a confident genius of the microphone.  His level of lyrical talent and his ability to write songs that have messages and deep thoughts are what make him great.  And it's not just a few songs that showcase this talent, he now has three full length albums and numerous EPs that all carry a consistent level of brilliance.  His descriptions of situations and places make you feel like you are there with him.  To put it in his own words "you can call [him] modern urban Norman Rockwell, [he] paints a picture of the spot well." He is very personal and introspective in many of his songs, which gives his listeners a window into his life to experience what he has gone through to get to this point.  He puts everything out in the open and boldly and eloquently speaks the truth.  I urge you listen closely to these songs and to what Brother Ali has to say because he is amazing.

Brother Ali - Begin Here


Brother Ali - Picket Fence


Brother Ali - Sleepwalker


Brother Ali - Room With A View


Brother Ali - Uncle Sam Goddamn


Brother Ali - Crown Jewel

Zeus, Dr. Dog, and Elbow

Holy crap I actually got a post finished for Wednesday like I used to when I first started.  Ok, so the first bit of music I have for you this week is the new debut album by Zeus titled "Say Us" (I mentioned them in my first post).  It doesn't come out on CD until the 23rd but it became available on vinyl on the 9th.  I have finally obtained a copy and it is just as good as I expected and then some.  I had a lot of expectations for this album based on their EP "Sounds Like Zeus," and I have to say that I feel that Zeus delivered with a bang.  Great 60s and 70s psychedelic folk/rock feel with awesome harmonies.  The sound is sort of Kinks meets The Stones with some Beatles Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da style piano thrown in the mix.  They write great catchy tunes that are not your everyday pop although they still have a poppy feel.  This is the kind of cd that I could listen to over and over like it better each time.  Zeus are definitely an up and coming band that should be on everyone's watch list and with a debut like this, one can only dream of the possibilities.  I've posted two songs below and there are others in my first post.

Zeus - The Renegade


Zeus - Kindergarten


The next bit of music this week comes from a group called Dr. Dog.  I would probably put them in the same category as Zeus musically.  They have a psychedelic, folky feel with poppy 60s style vocals.  However they have a unique modern take on the sound of the 60s.  They are continually pushing boundaries of sound and experimenting with different methods of creating music that doesn't necessarily emulate the sounds of the 60s but builds upon them in exciting ways.  Dr Dog continues to improve with each release and hopefully their sixth, "Shame, Shame," will not stray from this trend.  Below is their new single "Shadow People," as well as two favorites of mine.

Dr. Dog - Shadow People


Dr. Dog - The Girl


Dr. Dog - From


My band of the week this week is Elbow.  Hailing from the UK, they are like Coldplay but with a little more of an edge.  I suppose you could say they draw much of their sound from a lot of the British alternative/pop bands like Coldplay, Radiohead, Blur, Doves, etc, though they have crafted something that is uniquely their own.  They have a jazzy/pop feel to them with light and airy vocals that feel like they reach up to the ceilings of a giant cathedral.  This is sort of the point since they recorded their latest album "The Seldom Seen Kid" in their own personal studio facility which they call "The Elbow Room" or now most recently "The Big Room."  They are incredibly innovative and do a remarkable job of experimenting with different styles of music and rhythm.  Check out a few tracks from there last two albums (including "An Audience With The Pope," which is probably one of the coolest takes on a love song I have ever heard) and be sure to keep an eye out for their next release which they just recently began working on. 

Elbow - Forget Myself


Elbow - The Bones Of You


Elbow - An Audience With The Pope

It's All About The Rock & Roll

As a necessary requirement for the music this week (or at least the first two artists), I'm going to ask you to turn up your volume to at least 90%.  Ok, the first group this week is Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. Based out of LA this trio create good old fashioned rock music. They have been around since their first record (B.R.M.C.) hit the scene in 1999. Their sound is inspired by British rock bands like Jesus and the Mary Chain or The Verve. They play fuzzed out, feedback heavy guitars with a driving rock beat that gets your feet stomping and your hands clapping. Their records seem to have two different styles. The first two albums were very electric guitar based and rugged. But with their third release (Howl) they drew more on acoustic guitar and folky Bob Dylan-esque sounds, while still keeping that foot stomping beat. "Howl" got a great response so it was a surprise when "Baby 81" came out and they had reverted back to the electric guitar heavier rock sound. But, the album was incredible so no complaints from me. Now they have a new album due out March 9th and the single, "Beat The Devil's Tattoo," that was just released this week hints at a return to the acoustic influence. It has a folk backwoods feel to it but then heavy guitars come in and it reminds me of Queens of the Stone Age or Eagles of Death Metal. In Short, heavy fuzzed out guitars, vocals like dylan or Lennon, and heart pounding beats; what could be better?

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Spread Your Love (B.R.M.C.)


Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Ain't No Easy Way (Howl)


Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Berlin (Baby 81)


Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Beat The Devil's Tattoo (New Single)


The next song I have for you is Jimi Hendrix's new single. That's right if you didn't know already there is a new Jimi Hendrix album coming out with unreleased stuff. Hell Yeah! The single is the title track called "Valleys of Neptune." I think it was actually part of some special compilation but it was never officially released. Anyway, the songs were recorded during Jimi's last studio session and the album is set for release on March 9th.  Valleys of Neptune is typical Hendrix with great psychedelic guitar riffs and that voice we all miss.  To me, the sound seems to be between "Electric Ladyland" and "First Rays of the New Rising Sun."  Take a listen.

Jimi Hendrix - Valleys of Neptune


My artist you have to hear this week is Scott Matthews. Scott is a singer songwriter from the UK. His debut album "Passing Stranger" consists of, what I like to call, acoustic blues songs with a twist. He uses melodies and tunes that are influenced by worldly music such as Middle Eastern, Indian, or European folk sounds. He has a voice that reminds me of Eddie Vedder in that is exudes power but stays reserved and soft. His second album was released late last June and is called "Elsewhere." It still has that worldly feel that is helped by the artistic influence of Robert Plant. It has more variety of sounds than his first album, and though I think that I prefer the first album, "Elsewhere" is still fantastic, creative, and unique music that makes Scott Matthews an artist to watch.

Scott Matthews - Underlying Lies (Elsewhere)


Scott Matthews - Fractured (Elsewhere)


Scott Matthews - Dream Song (Passing Stranger)


Scott Matthews - City Headache (Passing Stranger)


Hope you enjoyed the music and that I didn't completely destroy your eardums.

-Emerson

Civil Twilight, Justin Nozuka, and Soul Position

I've got a few great artists for you this week.  The first is a trio from Cape Town, South Africa called "Civil Twilight".  They are mostly influenced by British pop/rock bands that they heard coming out of Europe when they were growing up.  This repertoire of artists includes Radiohead, Muse, The Verve, U2, The Police, etc.  The influence of these groups is definitely  evident on the self-titled debut album.  The lyrics are inspired and the vocals are powerful, yet warm and soothing.  The music is very melodic and has that epic arena rock sound heard from Coldplay or U2.  Civil Twilight are a great up and coming group that I think will inevitably make it big.  Take a listen to a few tracks and you're sure to be a fan.

Civil Twilight - Letters From The Sky


Civil Twilight - Human


Civil Twilight - Trouble


I discovered Justin Nozuka just after his debut album "Holly" was released.  Justin is a young singer/songwriter from Canada.  He writes incredibly personal and passionate songs that have some depressing subject matter, but with catchy melodies that give much of his music an uplifting tone.  He has a soulful and sometimes bluesy sound that will have you singing along and wanting to play the album all over again.  The talent that he displays as a 16 year old is enough to make your jaw drop.  With his sophomore album "You I Wind Land And Sea" slated to drop at the end of March Justin has released some demos to fans receiving his newsletter.  Take a listen to a few of those tracks as well my favorite from "Holly."

Justin Nozuka - I Think I'm In Love [Demo]


Justin Nozuka - Swan In The Water [Demo]


Justin Nozuka - Be Back Soon


I thought that since I haven't had many hip-hop groups to share with you lately that I would feature one as my group you must hear this week.  Soul Position is a collaboration between satirical lyricist Blue Print who hails from Columbus, OH where I grew up and DJ RJD2.  They are on an independent record label out of Minneapolis, MN called Rhymesayers which houses some of my favorite rappers.  These are two artists at the top of there game who make some incredible songs together.  This is rap as it should be; intelligent and observant artists rapping about problems with society not becoming part of a fad.  Take a listen to these songs and pay attention to the lyrics.  Unlike some rappers today, they actually make sense.

Soul Position - Hand-Me-Downs


Soul Position - The Cool Thing To Do


Soul Position - Priceless

Better Late Than Never

Sorry it took me so long to get this post up.  I had more technical difficulties and i ended up having to switch my music player because the other one was giving me problems.  Anyway, I am pretty psyched this week because Gorillaz has a new single and a new album coming out and the single is awesome! They are back in a big way with Mos Def and R&B/Soul legend Bobby Womack featured on their first single titled "Stylo." The song is driven by an infectious, funky, techno/dance beat that is typical of Gorillaz music. Mos Def starts out the tune with a nice short rhyme; but what makes this song great is the vocals by Bobby Womack. He has that classic 70s sound that could be straight out of "Shaft" or "Starsky and Hutch" but is's a sound that is not often heard over an electro hip/hop beat. It is an interesting sound and has grown on me every time I have listened to this song. The creativity and musical genius of Gorillaz is hard to match. They are continually pushing boundaries and creating masterpieces that are beyond their time. I for one am pumped for their new album. Take a listen to "Stylo" and be sure to check out the album "Plastic Beach" when it drops on March 9th.

Gorillaz - Stylo (Album Version)


Keeping with the R&B/Soul sound, the next artist I ahve for you is Corinne Bailey Rae.  Her new CD "The Sea" was released on Tuesday and it is wonderful.  Corinne has a gorgeous voice that is mellow, jazzy, and smooth.  She can be soft and intimate and then other times more sultry and funky.  Her songwriting ability seems to have only improved with this new album.  The expanded the styles of songs that she writes and, like her debut record, her lyrics are personal and poetic.  She creates a mood with her songs to engulf your mind and draw you in to her world.  This album is one that is a great listen all the way through.  Take a listen to these tracks (especially her cover of Jimi Hendrix's "Little Wing" because it is sick) and then buy the record because it is worth every penny.

Corinne Bailey Rae - Feels Like The First Time


Corinne Bailey Rae - The Blackest Lily


Corinne Bailey Rae - Little Wing


My featured band this week is a group from Glasgow, Scotland appropriately named "Glasvegas."  I guess the best way to decribe this band would be epic arena rock (think U2) meets 50s girl groups and Phil Spector's wall of sound.  They have gleaming poppy vocals that disguise the somewhat depressing lyrics and still give the album an overall uplifting feel.  This group are one of the more unique bands to come out of the UK in a while.  You should turn your volume way up for this band.  It makes it sound even better.  Enjoy.

Glasvegas - Geraldine


Glasvegas - Daddy's Gone


Glasvegas - Flowers & Football Tops

Kansas City Jammers Ride Again

Sorry that my post is so late this week, I had some technical difficulties getting the post to work.  I have also been busy this week and I didn't want to just throw something together because you deserve nothing but the best from me because that's what you came here looking for.  So before I get to anything else, I have a concert to review for you.  This weekend I had the pleasure of attending a show that was inspiring to say the least.  The Kansas City Jammers formed in 1971 at Ohio Wesleyan University and spent most of their career playing small gigs at frats and college bars around the state.  When they split they put their dreams of fame on the back-burner, but this past weekend they got back together to play a benefit show at OWU and live out the dream, if only for one night.  The concert was absolutely amazing.  These guys still know how to rock a show.  KCJ have that great sound from the late 60s early 70s.  They fuse folk, rock, and psychedelic music to create gorgeous songs with harmonies inspired by the likes of The Rolling Stones, Simon & Garfunkel, CSN&Y, and The Beatles.  They sing catchy tunes with heartfelt and personal lyrics (With a few goofy exceptions) and even though it's been over 35 years since they split, The Jammers sounded as though they had been playing together non-stop since 1972.  They had a chemistry at the show that can only be shared by long time friends and such great enthusiasm on stage you could tell how much they appreciated every single person in the room.  They rocked, they rolled, and they serenaded listeners who came from far and wide for another chance to hear some incredibly talented and wonderful human beings fulfill the dream they created in 1971.  As I said, it was inspiring.  Take a listen to some songs from the original album titled "Got Good (If You Get It)" and as soon as the show is up on youtube, I'll post the link.

Kansas City Jammers - Midnight Watch


Kansas City Jammers - For Father


Kansas City Jammers - Back Road Woman


Kansas City Jammers - Live In Harmony


The next band I have for you this week is Cavalier Rose, a four piece band from Brooklyn, NY.  When I first heard this group I was blown away because the sound is so unique and awesome.  Their songs fuse bluesy rock songs with jazzy rhythms.  This by itself is enough to grab my attention.  But then, throw in a female lead singer who has a voice like a soulful, strung out swing jazz singer from the 50s with a sexy swagger, and you just may have one of my new favorite bands.  Heather Christian (lead singer/pianist) creates an intense mosaic of emotions with her voice and words; at times sounding desperate and strained, while others soft and beautiful.  Her voice accents the music in a way that will send shivers down your spine.  This is probably one of the most exciting new finds I have heard in a long time because they have such a different and creative sound.  Take a listen to these amazing songs, all of which are available for free on cavalierrose.com

Cavalier Rose - Primary Colors


Cavalier Rose - Lie To Me


Cavalier Rose - Kiss Me In Closets


My band you have to hear this week is Citizen Cope.  Citizen cope is actually Clarence Greenwood, a singer/songwriter from Brooklyn.  He has an infectious sound that is slow urban hip-hop rhythm with rural, bluesy melodies.  He has a lazy slurred voice that is soulful and perfect for the sound he creates which is very laid back and mellow.  This is the kind of music that will have you bobbing your head and humming long after it is over.  I have decided to feature Citizen Cope this week because I just got a hold of the pre-release EP from his new album "The Rainwat LP" and I couldn't wait to share it with everybody.  So turn your speakers up, lean back, and listen to some absolutely fantastic songs.  The first three are from his pre-release and the fourth one is a favorite from his last album "Every Waking Moment."

Citizen Cope - Healing Hands


Citizen Cope - Keep Askin'


Citizen Cope - Lifeline


Citizen Cope - All Dressed Up


Next week I will hopefully have my blog up on time.  Hope you think this week was worth the wait.  Until next time enjoy listening.

-Emerson

Peter Bradley Adams

This is a special post because I want to acknowledge Peter Bradley Adams and his manager Marc and thank them for commenting on my blog.  I think it is awesome when musicians are interested in what lowly, non-official critics have to say about you because some artists could care less.  I really appreciate the links to the songs too, because I am always looking forward to hearing new music and I plan on buying "Traces" tomorrow.  If anyone didn't get a chance to check out the new songs they are from the new album "Traces" which was released on Oct. and they are posted at the end of this blog.  If you want to download them the links are there too.  I also want to give a more thorough review of this wonderful music because Peter deserves the praise. 

Rarely do you find an artist with such raw talent not only musically but lyrically as well.  Peter Bradley Adams possesses this rare gift.  His incredibly soothing and soulful voice impeccably compliments the music he makes.  His lyrics are deep and moving and very heartfelt.  His songs bring emotion to the surface and leave you with a lingering impression in your soul.  This is not just one track I am referring to either; it is consistent throughout his entire repertoire of albums and that does not happen because of luck. This the kind of music that can stop you in your tracks and force you to listen.  Peter Bradley Adams is the real deal and seems only to be getting better with each consecutive album.  Don't miss this exceptional display of genuine musical ability.

Peter Bradley Adams - For You


Peter Bradley Adams - From The Sky


Peter Bradley Adams - One Picture (From "Gather Up")


Peter Bradley Adams - Los Angeles (Winter '09)


Here are the links to download these songs:
www.peterbradleyadams.com/free/ep
www.peterbradleyadams.com/free/foryou 

I also have the link to buy his new album traces here if you want to show your support:
Peter Bradley Adams on Amazon

Thanks again to Marc and Peter and keep making great music.

- Emerson